Beach2Beach is more than a scenic run along the stunning Dee Why to Newport peninsula.
Since 1994, thousands of incredible participants have raised over $7 million for charitable organisations. Almost 2000 people took part again this year.
Runner (and walkers) of all ages and fitness levels take on the challenge of running or walking along a picturesque course that links some of the most iconic beaches in the region. Whether tackling the Half Marathon, 14km course or opting for shorter 6km or 3km distances, the event offers something for everyone.
A half marathon is a road running event of 21.0975 kilometres (c. 13 mi 192.5 yd)—half the distance of a marathon. The 2026 Beach2Beach Mounties Group Half Marathon began in Dee Why, headed south along Curl Curl Beach before looping around The Harbord Diggers on Freshwater Headland, offering stunning ocean views all the way to Palm Beach. The course then returned towards Dee Why, taking runners over the headland with panoramic vistas of Dee Why and Long Reef beaches.
Continuing north, the route looped around Dee Why Lagoon, followed the coastline past Collaroy Beach, and skirted the picturesque Narrabeen Lake before passing Rat Park where the 6km runners started once the half marathon runners had passed. Along the way, their route took in breath-taking ocean views of Turimetta and Warriewood beaches, then crossed the Mona Vale Golf Course to Mona Vale Beach. In the final stretch, runners tackled the challenging Barrenjoey Road hill before reaching the finish line at Newport Beach.
Initiated by Hotel Proprietor Mark Bayfield and his family, the original Pub2Pub route ran between the family’s Dee Why Hotel, along Pittwater Road, to what was then The Newport Arms.
Today the Beach2Beach Team is organised by a group of passionate Rotarians who believe this event is a great way to give back to local organisations and those less fortunate, while hosting the most popular participation event on the peninsula. The whole team give both their time and skills with no financial benefit to themselves, some working all year round to ensure a successful event.
Proceeds from the event go towards supporting local charitable organisations, making it not just a celebration of health and community spirit but also an opportunity to give back. With its friendly atmosphere and breath-taking views, the Beach2Beach Running Festival is a highlight on the Australian run calendar.
This year the sun shone and runners had a great time undertaking the run of their choice on Sunday August 23.
The race finishes in Bert Payne Park at Newport Beach, where a family-friendly festival awaits, featuring live music, kids’ entertainment, and a variety of food stalls - there was even a masseuse to help those who had a cramp.
Organisers stated:
''What a wonderful day it was. The sun was shining and you were all absolute rock-stars.
Whether you set a personal best or enjoyed a relaxed stroll and made new friends along the way, we hope you loved the day as much as we did.
Thank you for making our day!''
A Community Photography gallery of 200 images as a slideshow: gallery.communityphotography.org/p396720510/slideshow
The Rotary webpage with the winners results is available at: www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/beach-to-beach-2026
Hands on. Event organiser Rob van Geest
About Community Photography
Community Photography specialises in photographing community and Not for Profit sector events, such as conferences, award ceremonies, golf days, rallies and visiting dignitaries and celebrities. We provide support for Not For Profits, Charities, Community and volunteers. Since starting in 2009, Community Photography photographers have covered over 1000 events and delivered in excess of 100,000 images to our clients. We photograph for now and for future generations. Visit: communityphotography.org
More photos from this year's Beach2Beach Fun Run Festival run below.
Luc Burnip finishing 1st in the Half Marathon with a time of 1:10:19
James Penny claims 2nd spot in the half marathon in 1:12:13
Natalea Smith, first female to finish the half marathon in a time of 01:19:20
Shanti Carter completed the half marathon in a time of 01:37:39
Emerson Leadbeatter - half marathon completed in 01:39:31
Breakfast BBQ when you're done or even just supporting those running
Vital First Aid station volunteer
A pair of successfully completing the 14k Beach2Beach run Rockstar Runners!
Wakehurst MP Michael Regan presented winners with their medals and plaques
MR and LB - winners!